Category: Product Announcements

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Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III Announced!

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III

Canon wouldn’t suffice with just one DSLR body and several point–and-shoots, they made sure they grab the big news with the release of the update to their flagship model, now the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III. It seemed that the EOS-40D and the recently available EOS-1D Mark III would’ve been enough to lead against its competitors, but with a 21-megapixel full–frame sensor, now who can closely threaten them technology–wise?

The new EOS-1Ds has an unrivaled 21–megapixel CMOS sensor and can shoot at five frames per second, for up to 56 JPEG or 23 RAW images. Also improved in this model is the viewfinder, now brighter and with higher magnification compared to the EOS-1Ds Mark II. It also inherits the Live View functionionality from the Canon EOS-1D Mark III, along with the 3–inch LCD.

With these new features and improvements, will the Mark III be good enough for users to upgrade to this new model, especially considering the 8,000 dollar retail price?

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The new Canon EOS-40D

Canon EOS 40D - front view.

It’s DSLR time once again this year as it’s raining new models from major players Canon and Nikon, each one trying to outdo its counterpart from the other camp.

The Canon EOS-40D is the long–awaited successor to the 30D, which used to be one of the better bodies in the market until compared to Nikon’s D200 and D80. The 40D though packs a lot of punch that should put offerings from other camps in the backseat.

Unlike the previous years, it took little time from leak to official release, Canon beating other DSLR makers to the punch by announcing their new models ahead of everyone.

The Canon EOS-40D is exceptional in its feature set, now capable of 6.5 frames per second continuous shooting at its 10–megapixel resolution. At this rate, it can take 75 JPG or 17 RAW images before the buffer slows down. A new AF system is also introduced, with 9 cross–type sensors plus another one mounted diagonally in the center that works well with f/2.8 and faster lenses.

It also carries most of the new innovations in the Canon EOS-400D like the Integration Cleaning System for the CMOS sensor and Picture Styles, which was also in the 30D. Taking from the Canon EOS-1D Mark III, the 40D also sports a 3–inch LCD with Live View Function, allowing for framing/shooting through the LCD.

This is certainly a revolutionary camera for die–hard Canon shooters, and DPReview provides us a preview of the Canon EOS-40D to give us the lowdown on this new model.

Canon EOS 40D - rear view.

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Announced: Tamron SP AF70-200mm F/2.8 Di LD [IF] Macro

Tamron SP AF70-200mm F/2.8 Di LD [IF] Macro

Just a few weeks ago, Tamron announced the Tamron SP AF70-200mm F/2.8 Di LD [IF] Macro, a new lens that promises to combine compactness and speed. Compared to other f/2.8 telephoto zooms from other manufacturers, this lens is expected to be much smaller and lighter while retaining the advantages of a f/2.8 zoom. Most of the technology that goes into this is based on the hugely successful Tamron SP AF28-75mm F/2.8 XR Di.

The main features of this lens are listed as:

  1. 0.95m (37.4) MFD over the Entire Zoom Range for 1:3.1 Maximum Magnification Ratio
  2. Soft Out-of-Focus Effect and Sharp Depiction
  3. Lightweight, Yet Fast F/2.8 Maximum Aperture
  4. Internal Surface Coatings Minimize Ghosting and Flare
  5. One-touch AF/MF Switchover mechanisms (for Canon and Nikon only)
  6. Detachable Tripod Grip Ring
  7. Flower-shaped Lens Hood

For more information, read the official press release on the Tamron SP AF70-200mm F/2.8 Di LD [IF] Macro.

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Canon EOS-1D Mark III released!

Canon EOS-1D Mark III

Finally, the wait is over! Canon has just announced the EOS-1D Mark III, its update to their professional 1–series digital SLR. With its recent advancements in its technology, the new 1D is undoubtedly the best in its class today, putting the competition way behind.

Canon EOS-1D Mark III

The Canon EOS-1D Mark III now sports a 10.1–megapixel CMOS sensor with data passed through a dual DIGIC III processor, enabling it to churn through information much faster than before. The new APS-H sensor is now capable of reaching ISO 3200 with ISO 50 and 6400 as sensitivity extensions/expansions, it being touted as Canon’s most light-sensitive and innovative sensor developed to date. The improved processing pipeline can now handle a burst of up to 110 Large JPEGs or 30 RAW files, an impressive number that matches this camera’s superb performance.

And performance is where the Canon EOS-1D cameras have always been known for. This update now has 19 high–precision cross–type AF points instead of 7, a highlight of the brand–new autofocus system. Now capable of bursts of 10 frames per second, the Canon EOS-1D Mark III is indeed today’s fastest digital camera available. Another unique feature is the Live View LCD, a first for a Canon DSLR and something not many were actually expecting.

More information on the Canon EOS-1D Mark III is available from Canon’s official press release. With the announcement of this camera, Canon has thrown down the gauntlet by establishing their advantages in digital imaging. Will the likes of Nikon, Fujifilm, and Sony produce an answer anytime soon?

Canon EOS-1D Mark III

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Fujifilm announces Finepix S5 Pro

Fujifilm Finepix S5 Pro

FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. has recently announced their latest digital SLR, the Finepix S5 Pro. This camera is especially aimed at wedding, portrait, and studio photographers with features specifically useful to the said type of photography. Developed since Photokina 2006, this new Nikon–based body is scheduled to hit the market in February 2007 with a retail price of $1,999.

Further enhancements in Fujifilm’s sensor technology makes this camera a tough contender, especially when it comes to color and image quality. The PR states:

One is an expanded dynamic range from the double pixel technology (6.17 million S-pixels and 6.17 million R-pixels) of the camera’s Super CCD SR Pro sensor that is approximately 400% wider than that of a CCD working on a single-pixel design. In addition, the FinePix S5 Pro goes a step further by coupling the new Super CCD SR Pro sensor with Fujifilm’s new RP Processor Pro for smoother tonality from brightest light to the darkest shadows. An ISO equivalent sensitivity of 3200 is also available on the FinePix S5 Pro, thanks to the RP Processor Pro technology.

Face detection technology is another feature for this new camera. This feature is now steadily making it to consumer compact digitals though not in digital SLRs; perhaps the Finepix S5 Pro is one of the first bodies to sport this consumer–friendly technology.

Fujifilm’s article on this product release also boasts of improvements in ergonomics, weather sealing, and a 100,000–cycle shutter mechanism. Familiar? Of course, I think the Finepix S5 Pro is essentially a Nikon D200 fitted with Fujifilm’s imaging sensor and electronics. Just like previous incarnations of Fujifilm’s S-series professional bodies. This camera will likely be a favorite of portrait photographers if Fujifilm manages to improve on their already good color and image rendition. Reportedly however, just like the models before it, the Finepix S5 Pro is rumored to have the same sluggish performance that may be a little slower compared to today’s digital SLRs, even against the entry–level offerings from Sony, Nikon, and Canon. Will the Finepix S5 Pro make significant strides into the digital SLR market? We should see in the next few months, though I wouldn’t be expecting much.

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Canon Powershot A710 IS

Canon Powershot A710 IS

One of the hottest cameras on digitalcamerareview.com right now is the Canon Powershot A710 IS, currently fourth on their popularity list. Priced at $399, the inclusion of Canon’s image stabilization technology makes it one of the better choices in the market today. Here are some of the notable features of the camera according to digitalcamerareview.com’s article:

  • 7.1 megapixel CCD sensor
  • 2.5 inch LCD
  • 6x optical zoom with image stabilization
  • Safety zoom – digital zoom with losing image quality
  • Digital Tele-converter – emulates having a tele-converter attached to the camera
  • Exposure modes: auto, program auto, shutter priority, aperture priority, full manual, and complement of scene modes
  • 9 point AiAF autofocus system
  • capture 640×480 (VGA) movies at 30 fps up to 36 minutes long with 4GB SDHC media
  • MyColors features can now be applied after capturing, where previously they were applied at the capture time

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced camera for the Christmas season, the Canon Powershot A710 IS should be one of the better choices.

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Is this the Nikon D40?

Nikon D40

Just a few days ago, several photos were leaked on the web on what is supposed to be Nikon’s latest digital SLR, the Nikon D40. This new camera is positioned to take the place of the budget D50, the lowest model on Nikon’s DSLR lineup. Price is expected at around $499 for the body only, with the kit going for $599. The kit will include the G-II version of the 18-55mm which was featured in the D50.

The Nikon D40 has a 2.5 inch LCD that has been very common for all recent cameras. It will have the same 6.1 megapixel CCD from the D50 and an ISO range of 200 to 3200. Despite having just 3 AF points and lesser dedicated controls at the back of the camera, this should be a bestseller especially if it pops up at the rumored price. 500 dollars for a digital SLR body — times are good for us digital enthusiasts!

Compatibility with older Nikkor lenses (those not designated AF-S) is one of the D40’s downsides, though this wouldn’t be much of a limitation for first–time DSLR users, the target market of this camera. For the casual shooter just toying with the DSLR idea, the Nikon D40 should be a good match. But for those with a more serious plan and looking forward to more options in terms of accessories and lenses, the Nikon D80 should be of better value.

For a more thorough analysis of this new Nikon offering, Ken Rockwell’s article on the Nikon D40 should prove to be very helpful. By the way, have you noticed that Nikon seems to be producing better cameras for the past few months? Somehow it feels like my Canon EOS D60 wants to pair up with a Nikon D80. ;) Though seriously, a two–system approach to camera gear is almost impossible unless you’re a seasoned pro with a fat paycheck. And even professionals at the highest level rarely do a Canon + Nikon gear lineup. Just not possible, financially and especially emotionally. ;)

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Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC Macro

Sigma 18-50 mm F2.8 EX DC Macro

Around two weeks ago in Photokina 2006, Sigma announced the Sigma 18-50 mm F2.8 EX DC Macro which appears to be an updated version of its original Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC from more than a year ago.

This new lens now has the “macro” designation, with an increase in filter size from 67mm to 72mm. This change resulted in a minimum focusing distance of 20cm/7.9in, very similar to that of the popular Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 DC Macro that has been selling for several months now. I really think that this new lens is a hybrid of the older 18-50 and the new 17-70, combining the better attributes of these two good lenses.

I just got the Sigma 17-70 a few months ago but this new lens has me thinking again, though I don’t think I’m buying it soon. If you have the older Sigma 18-50 F2.8 or the Sigma 17-70, buying this one doesn’t make much sense unless you need both the F2.8 max aperture and the macro focusing. Now imagine this: what if Sigma combined all the best qualities of the lenses mentioned above without compromises, like a 17-70 F2.8 with macro and optical stabilization to boot? I know I’d be in line for them right away. Let’s hope the OS technology from the newly announced 18-200 OS dwindles down to their other lenses, as well as their progress in making consumer zooms with constant F2.8 max aperture at relatively cheap prices.

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Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS

Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS

Sigma has just announced the new Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS, similar to its previous 18-200 offering but now with its optical stabilization technology, simply dubbed as “OS”. Quite obviously, this lens is just a refresh of the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC it had for some time now. This move is definitely targetted at Nikon’s relatively new wonder lens, the AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED released almost one year ago.

The addition of optical stabilization surely makes the 18-200mm all–in–one combos seem useful now, making it the APS-C equivalent of the 28-300mm of which Canon has an L version. Considering that the digital SLR market is now opening up to snapshot hobbyists as a result of ever–cheaper prosumer models, long zooms will certainly appeal to a percentage of shooters longing for a single lens solution.

Nikon’s 18-200 VR is one good lens since it has been known to be sharp throughout its range, making both ends of zoom range very usable. The addition of Nikon’s VR technology made it very usable even at maximum telephoto. Ken Rockwell raves about his 18-200 in his review, and Thom Hogan seems very happy with it as well. The big question: will the Sigma 18-200 OS be anywhere close to the Nikon 18-200 VR? If it rates at 80% of the Nikon, the Sigma will sell. Of course that’s assuming their OS technology is as good as Nikon’s VR or Canon’s IS.

For more details on the lens, DPReview has coverage just as the Sigma website. For comparison, here’s DPReview’s page for the Nikon 18-200 VR.

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Sigma SD14

Sigma SD14

Ever heard of Sigma’s new DSLR? They’re building up the anticipation until the actual launch on the 26th of September in Cologne, Germany. The Sigma SD14 is expected to use a new iteration of the Foveon sensor that touts better color capture capabilities. However, is this a case of too little, too late? With Canon, Sony, and Nikon fiercely battling it out in the consumer level, this new body better be catered to a more pro–inclined market. Sadly, this market is also Canon’s and Nikon’s turf. But with their supposedly revolutionary advantages, we should know in a few more months if they manage to get a good part of the digital photography pie. And if all else fails, they can always still sell value third–part lenses that are favorites of bargain shooters like me. :)

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Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED

Along with the release of the new Nikon D80, Nikon has released a Nikkor lens, the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED. DPReview reports on the major features:

  • Offers a broad 18-135mm focal range (7.5x zoom) for use in a wide variety of situations (equivalent to a 27-202.5mm lens in the 35mm format).
  • ED glass and hybrid aspherical lens elements minimize chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion, while ensuring high resolution and contrast
  • Incorporates a compact SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for quiet focusing
  • Delivers high-level optical performance, specially designed for use with Nikon DX format digital SLRs.
  • Employs a seven-blade rounded diaphragm opening that achieves a natural out-of-focus blur.
  • Two focus modes, auto[A] and manual [M], with manual override in auto mode.
  • Enables focusing from as close as 45cm (17.7 in.) from the subject through the entire focal range
  • Internal Focusing (IF) design enables compact size and eliminates front element rotation, enabling the use of circular polarizing filters
  • Flower-shaped Lens Hood HB-32 (provided) greatly reduces image degradation from stray light

Ken Rockwell has reviewed the lens and rates it fine, though questions its value for the price its currently selling for. Still, if getting a Nikon body with this as an option for a kit lens instead of their 18-55 or 18-70, the 18-135 is the lens to pick.

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New Canon products confirmed!

Canon EOS 400D with the 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Yesterday’s news of new Canon products are almost officially confirmed as of this hour. We now have a live link for the Canon EOS 400D we mentioned yesterday at the Canon Australia website. They also have a running story on their new products which also includes the Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM and the Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM. Rob Galbraith also have coverage on the new consumer body and the new L lenses.

With these new leads, I’m definitely sure these three products are good as real. The next question is: Does Canon have a few more surprises?

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Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM

Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM

On the list of Canon products set for announcement, the new Canon 50mm f/1.2L USM is one special lens. This will be the first 50mm in years to be designated an “L” after the discontinued 50mm f/1.0L, Canon’s mark of excellence for its lenses. The f/1.4 and f/1.8 version of the 50mm has long been available but neither has been perfect, so the clamor for a 50mm L never died.

This new lens will have a ring–type USM providing accurate and silent autofocus performance, and at the same time allowing for full–time manual focus override, negating the need for toggling an AF/MF switch when the need for manual focus suddenly arises.

One possible drawback for this lens could be price. If you recall the recently new 85mm f/1.2L USM MkII, what used to be a 1500 USD lens crossed the 2000 USD barrier after being revised. We could see the 50L above the 1000 USD point, making it not too affordable for everyone. If they sell it at slightly above twice the price of the 50mm f/1.4, it will still be in the 750-900 USD range — fairly affordable. They should sell it at that price and see it fly like hotcakes, like the 17-40 f/4L which happens to be in the same price range.

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Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Along with the recent news leak revealing the Canon EOS 400D, there will be a new lens to be announced with the new body, the Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS USM.

The original 70-200mm f/4L USM is one of Canon’s best–selling lenses, it being one the most affordable while delivering excellent performance for a variety of uses. A good percentage of the Canon shooting population have long dreamt of an image–stabilized version of the lens which makes it a worthy alternative to the 70–200mm f/2.8L USM without the weight burden. Now, the dream walkaround telephoto zoom is here for real. Since this is based on the non-IS original, sharpness and details should be just as good.

The addition of IS will allow for hand–holding at slow shutter speeds, which makes me think that this lens is aimed more towards the amateurs toting 350D and soon 400D bodies. A good percentage of people shooting with these bodies are typical weekend hobbyists, the type that do not prefer to carry bags of gear and almost always do not have a tripod while shooting.

Right now, no price details are available but this lens expected around the 900 USD range. Any higher and it eats into the 70-200mm f/2.8L (non–IS) territory, cannibalizing sales of that great lens. Significantly lower will also put it in direct competition with the original 70-200 f/4L (non–IS), unless they decide to discontinue the old f4L and give us a cheap IS–powered telephoto zoom! At any rate, this will still be a very good lens.

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The new Canon EOS 400D

Canon EOS 400D.

News just broke out at the fredmiranda.com forums pointing to a thread in a Chinese photography forum revealing what will likely be tomorrow’s announcement of Canon’s newest products. Of significant importance is the supposed replacement for the entry–level 350D, the Canon EOS 400D. This new body will also be known as the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTI for selected markets like North America.

This new Canon body boasts of several improvements over the recent Digital Rebel. Among them, most notable are:

  • A brand–new 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, producing a maximum image dimension of 3,888 x 2,592 pixels.
  • Dust Removal System. A first for Canon SLR bodies, this aims to take away some of the supposed advantages of other entry–level DSLRs like the Sony Alpha A100.
  • 9-point wide area autofocus system inherited from the Canon EOS 30D. Yes, this body shares the same high performance AF system from its more expensive sibling, one that is even better than the 20D.
  • 2.5 inch wide angle of view LCD which is now almost standard among cameras released this year, though this one is said to be brighter by as much as 40% over that of the #0D and the 5D.
  • Just like recent Canon bodies, the EOS 400D will have “Picture Styles,” adding more creative options that allows for mimicking various “photographic looks” that we’re made famous during the days of film SLRs.

Many shooters from the forum were speculating that this camera would eat into the 30D sales, though from a consumer’s point of view, that could only be a very good thing. If this camera retails below the 1000 USD range, and it should, Canon probably has another winner in their hands. Looking at the success of the 350D and Canon’s aggressive price reductions the past weeks, the EOS 400D should be fairly affordable and appears destined to be another bestseller.

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Sigma APO 50-150mm F2.8 EX DC HSM

Sigma APO 50-150mm F2.8 EX DC HSM

Sigma has just announced a new zoom lens for APS-C DSLRs like the Canon EOS 30D and the Nikon D200, the Sigma APO 50-150mm F2.8 EX DC HSM. This tele zoom mimics the range of traditional 70-200 zooms that are widely used in full–frame digital and film SLRs. In addition, it has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 throughout its entire zoom range, making it the APS-C counterpart of the Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 as well as the famous offerings from Canon, boasting the same max aperture.

This lens produces an effective field of view of 75 to 225 mm on the recently announced Nikon D80, and 80 to 240 mm on the Canon 1.6x crop bodies. This lens is relatively light for its zoom range and aperture, perhaps a good selling point for potential buyers. It is also equipped with Sigma’s HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) which is their answer to Canon’s USM (Ultrasonic Motor) technology, providing fast and silent AF performance. HSM also allows for full–time manual focus override, negating the need for toggling the manual focus switch in cases where you need manual focus.

The creative possibities with this lens is abundant since it is compatible with Sigma’s 1.4x EX DG APO and 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters, further extending the zoom range to the photographer’s advantage. An important note: the addition of a 1.4x teleconverter makes it a 70-210 f/4 zoom, very much like Canon’s popular 70-200 f/4L. Technical details are available from DPReview.com’s coverage, with some insights from photo.net users.

If the performance of this lens equals or surpasses that of the Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 DC Macro, and it should considering the EX designation, this lens will be another best seller for Sigma being a welcome addition to the advanced amateur’s photography arsenal. I just hope that this lens slots in nicely in the 400 to 600 USD range, since any higher than that and the Canon 70-200 f/4L will appear a better value, for EOS shooters at least.

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The new Nikon D80

Nikon D80 (Photo courtesy of DPReview.com)

Nikon UK has just officially announced the new Nikon D80, the latest addition to Nikon’s digital SLR lineup. This camera handily slots in between the D70s and the recently new D200, and should provide good competition in the DSLR market.

Highlights of this new Nikon body includes:

  • New 10.2 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD image sensor delivering images at 3,872 x 2,592 maximum dimensions.
  • Refined 11–area AF system inherited from the top of the line D2 series.
  • Auto ISO which works very much like aperture and shutter priority, varying the sensor’s sensitivity as needed. The effective ISO range is 100-1600, with extended settings labeled as HI-0.3, HI-0.7 and HI-1. ISO is adjustable in 1/3 EV steps, and several levels of noise reduction can be cofigured.
  • Startup time of 0.18 seconds is a direct attack on Canon’s 0.2 or 0.15 value, all of which passable as “instant startup.”
  • Creative in–camera effects like “D-Lighting” which is expected to mimic Picasa’s “I’m feeling lucky” mode, or “auto contrast” and “auto levels” in Adobe Photoshop terms. Also available is red eye reduction and several filter effects.
  • A first for DSLRs is multiple exposures merged in one image file, another creative effect available only to the D80.
  • Like every new camera these days, a 2.5–inch rear LCD monitor offering a better view of everything. Examining sharpness and details through the LCD is now more plausible.

More details on this release is available from DPReview.com, and they have a detailed hands–on preview as well.

Nikon D80

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The new Canon EOS 3D

Canon EOS 3D

Pictured above is said to be Canon’s upcoming EOS 3D, but really, is it? The same picture has circled the various photography sites and forums, and many have already ignored it as a hoax. However, a recent thread on the Fref Miranda forums appears to contain convincingly genuine details regarding a “Canon EOS 3D“, said to be launched in around three weeks.

Rumored features appear very exciting and if true, this camera will indeed be a worthy competitor to the Nikon D200. Some of the highlights:

  • High performance AF system with 27 AF points, 11 of which are cross–type sensors up to f/4, with the center point cross–type up to f/5.6 and capable of AF up to f11. This performance is comparable or even better than the 1D series.
  • ECF: Eye–controlled focus. A unique feature carried over from the Elan 7NE.
  • 13.3 megapixel APS-H (1.3x) sensor with DIGIC III, capable of ISO 50 and 3200 plus ISO 25 and 6400 as expanded options.
  • 6 frames per second continuous shooting speed, up to 40 JPGs or 18 RAW files.

If this rumoured camera is indeed real, this should push down the prices of other models significantly. Maybe we can have a full–frame Canon EOS 5D breaking the 2000 dollar barrier along with a Canon EOS 30D for less than a grand. Good times are coming if this is true.

The text of the “supposedly leaked” Canon document is provided below:

Introducing the revolutionary EOS 3D.

Built from the ground up to represent the new face of digital imaging the EOS 3D will represent a breakthrough in high performance yet affordable photography. Featuring an elegant yet supremely functional design it takes the best of Canon’s previous designs and enhances the experience even further. A high performance AF system featuring 27pt of which 11 are x-type down to f/4 while and the centre point is cross-type to f/5.6 and allows AF down to f/11. The AI servo performance has been significantly improved too, exceeding that of the 1D Mk II.

Also Canon proudly brings ECF to the digital era and is greatly enhanced in performance over that found in the Elan 7NE.

However, the true revolution lies in the heart of the camera. Packing an amazing 13.3MP into an APS-H sized sensor the images are processed by a new DIGIC III engine. The next generation DIGIC III Image Processor builds on the legendary abilities of the digic II with double the processing power necessary to deliver unprecedented levels of resolution, speed and dynamic range. Despite the EOS 3D having smaller pixels than the EOS 5D, the DIGIC III provides even greater DR, more accurate colour rendition improved WB and lower noise. ISO 50 and 3200 are now part of the standard ISO settings and ISO 25 and 6400 are now included as an expanded option. Also it further reduces power consumption allowing class leading battery performance.

Thanks to DIGIC III the EOS 3D also boasts an impressive burst rate of 6fps for 18 shots in RAW and 40 in jpg.

In addition the body adds several sealing gaskets to the all magnesium shell allowing for operation in more extreme environments. A new evaluative algorithm allows more accurate metering in extreme lighting and can even correctly expose subjects like snow. Also a 2.4% spot meter allows for precise metering of any part of the scene. The viewfinder shows an impressive 98% of the scene both horizontally and vertically. Also for the first time Canon will be employing 2.75″ OLED display screen, offering superior resolution, brightness and power consumption to LCD screens and having markedly better performance in bright daylight.

Visit this site for more updates on this new product.

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Sigma Macro 70mm F2.8 EX DG

Sigma Macro 70mm F2.8 EX DG

A few weeks ago, Sigma announced the Sigma Macro 70mm F2.8 EX DG, a dedicated macro lens suited for digital and film SLR bodies. Though announced for both digital and film, it is strategically placed as a replacement for 105mm macro lenses. When used with the latest Canon EOS 30D or the Nikon D200, the effective focal length is in the 105mm range, a commonly used focal length for macro photography.

This lens is designated as a Sigma EX, a label of quality reserved only for their best lenses. Contrast this with the Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 DC Macro, which isn’t marketed as such though performs just as good as the EX-designated Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC, with extra range to boot.

A unique feature of this lens is a “Focus Limiter Switch” which is used to limit the focusing range, improving AF speed and accuracy.

This new entry from Sigma is interesting in that it addresses specific needs that many longtime film shooters have gotten used to. They now have lenses providing digital equivalents of the 28-70, the 16-35, and now the 70mm macro. I’m left thinking, will they be producing a 70-200 f/2.8 equivalent for digital SLRs? And will the 70mm f/2.8 macro be good enough for macro photography enthusiasts?

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Nikon D2Xs

Nikon D2Xs

Nikon’s flagship digital SLR, the D2X, has been updated and now named the D2Xs. The new camera uses the 12.21 megapixel sensor from the previous model, delivering 5 frames per second of continuous shooting. New for this model is the “viewfinder masking” when shooting in Hi–Speed Crop mode, allowing the shooter to easily distinguish the smaller frame captured.

Rob Galbraith has an article covering the new camera which will surely be talk of the Nikon world in the coming months. Though some would contend that this will spark new rounds Nikon versus Canon debates, I refuse to agree. But I sure do hope that Canon picks a few innovations from the Nikon camp and makes it available to their loyal users. Certainly, advancements no matter how small or significant continue to enhance the state of digital photography for everyone concerned.